The University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences’ Rural Health Leaders Pipeline has recently welcomed 18 students from rural Alabama aspiring to become primary care physicians and dentists in their communities. Among them are five new Rural Dental Scholars, marking the program's second cohort.

Photo credit: The University of Alabama“This year, we welcome our second cohort of Rural Dental Scholars,” said Dr. Antonio Gardner, director of education and evaluation for CCHS Rural Programs. “Although few in quantity, these students have the potential to expand dental services offered and improve oral health outcomes in rural Alabama.”

The Rural Dental Scholars Program helps address the need for dental professionals in rural areas by providing a dedicated admissions pathway for aspiring dentists from these communities. To qualify, students must have either lived in rural Alabama for eight years or graduated from a rural high school in the state.

The program consists of a year of study culminating in a master’s degree in rural community health at CCHS, following the completion of their undergraduate degree, along with early admission to the UAB School of Dentistry.

“We believe that this program is instrumental in improving access to oral health care for rural populations,” says Carly Timmons McKenzie, Ph.D., the School of Dentistry’s Assistant Dean for Admissions. “By targeting students from rural backgrounds who are passionate about making a difference, we have the opportunity to develop a new generation of dentists dedicated to serving these underserved areas.”

The 2024-25 class of Rural Dental Scholars includes Brittany Howard, of Mobile; Jenna Lankford, of Malcolm; Segura Magdalen, of Centre; Tamara Montes, of Birmingham; and Coleman Wright of Headland.

Story credit: Kandis Snyder, The University of Alabama